Fire caused by lightning burns 9,521-square-foot mansion in north Oklahoma City

A north Oklahoma City mansion went up in flames early Wednesday after it was struck by lightning.

The home’s residents, two adults and five children, escaped safely. But the three-story, 9,521-square-foot structure — that according to online records was valued at $2.8 million and owned by Villa Amore LLC — was severely damaged, fire Maj. Tammy McKinney said.

Photo by Robert Medley

The Oklahoma County Assessor website lists Frank Love, president of Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores, as a previous owner. Fire officials have not yet confirmed the names of current residents.

Fire crews responded to the home, 7444 N Country Club Drive at the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club, about 5 a.m. amid heavy smoke. Firefighters had difficulty locating the source of the blaze because it was in the attic, Woodard said.